"Aomori Wool Exhibition 2022 that Colors Winter ~Weaving with Sheep Living in Aomori~" will be held from December 2nd to 4th at "KITTO PARK" (1 Yanagawa, Aomori City).

This exhibition displays and sells works using wool from Aomori Prefecture. In addition to homespun (hand-spun and hand-woven) stoles and scarves, hand-knitted cardigans, hats, gloves, and other knit items, there are about 200 hand-made items such as Christmas trees that combine Aomori hiba and wool felt. . Raw wool and hand-spun yarn are also available.

Asako Nakagawa, the representative of the sponsored "Aomori Prefecture Wool Association aomori wool" (Hanazono 2), and Tomoko Omura, a member, met through a mutual acquaintance in 2015 and started working together. Members gathered through activities such as exhibitions, and launched "aomori wool" in 2017 (Heisei 29), which is currently run by six people.

The reason why they started using wool from Aomori Prefecture was that soon after they met, they learned that there was a sheep farm for meat in Hashikami Town. It all started when he offered to buy the sheared wool that had been disposed of. All processes such as sorting, washing, carding (aligning fibers), and spinning of wool are done by hand to make yarn. “The wool from sheep grown in a harsh cold environment retains heat, is durable, and does not shrink easily.

Every year from January to September, the association holds a "Meet to Enjoy Wool" where you can experience hand-spinning and weaving. The exhibition will feature works by 11 artists who participated for the first time this year. The youngest is 6 years old. Mr. Nakagawa says, "I want people to see the various ideas of the members of the 'Wool Enjoyment Club' and see how they can be used in a variety of ways."

Works include scarves (from 10,000 yen), stoles (from 23,000 yen), felt balls, ornaments, brooches, key chains, hair ties and other small items (from 500 yen).

Mr. Omura said, "When you look at the price, some people are hesitant because some of them are expensive, but they are surprisingly light and warm, so I would like you to pick them up and feel the texture. I want many people to know the goodness of Aomori wool. I want it," he called out.

The event is held from 10:00 to 17:00. free entrance.